Stimulus Millions Boost Consumer Energy Venture

Kansas Citians who replace major appliances with certain energy saving models later this month stand to get a double savings benefit. Once again, federal economic stimulus dollars come into play.

The Kansas City Council gets its facts from the city's Chief Environmental Officer, Dennis Murphy. First, between April 19th through 25th, there will be no Missouri sales tax on certain energy star rated appliances. Kansas City had to choose to opt in to the program.

During the same period, Missouri rolls out a rebate offer using $5.6 million in federal stimulus money. Murphy says the types of appliances don't match in both programs,--"Refrigerators, freezers and room air conditioners are not included in the rebate program. However, they are included in the sales tax program. "

Murphy says it is a first come, first served rebate offer. And it's only for replacement of old appliances with those using less energy. The buyer needs to give proof of recycling.

The rules are shown in a website at http://missouriappliancerebate.com.